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Niki organized a speed networking event where businesses were able to connect.

Following in the footsteps of her father, Niki Ververelli applied to Drexel University as an engineer. She realized it wasn't for her, though, after she attended an engineering workshop the summer prior to her freshman year. Niki switched her major to Communication, concentrating in corporate and public relations, before she even arrived on campus. "It just seemed right because I'm a real people-person; I like to socialize."

It was during Niki's second co-op experience that she put those people skills to the test. "I had my second co-op with the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce. I was an event coordinator and handled event operations. It was a lot of fun – I got my own event and I was able to see how important communication really is."

Niki organized an event called Corporate Speed Networking. Business members of the Chamber of Commerce gathered for two hours and met individually for about five minutes each. During that time they were able to exchange business cards and create alliances.

"It was kind of like speed-dating, but for businesses. Because we broke down communication to the fundamentals, the representatives were able to have fun in a relaxed atmosphere. It was neat to see a business idea grow from just two people casually talking."

Niki eventually hopes to earn her MBA and return to the Chamber of Commerce after graduation. As a result of her professional experiences at Drexel, she has discovered where her true talents lie. "Co-op students don't just make copies – we work hard and can handle responsibility. Through co-op I learned where I am supposed to be."